Numerical investigation of liquid metal flow in square channels under inclined magnetic fields for fusion relevant parameters

V. Klüber - L. Bühler - C. Mistrangelo

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 3640, 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany

Abstract
Laminar liquid metal flows in straight ducts of square cross-section under strong transverse magnetic fields have been investigated using a numerical code based on finite volume methods. The scope of the simulations is the liquid metal transport in nuclear fusion power reactors, where the orientations of duct walls do not ideally align with the direction of imposed magnetic field. Detailed knowledge about the combined impact of field strength, inclination angle of walls with respect to magnetic field lines, wall thickness, and electric conductivity on the flow of the liquid metal breeder and coolant PbLi is essential for the design of future fusion breeding blankets. Simulations have been performed in the range of fusion relevant parameters and results have been confirmed by asymptotic results for some special cases. Figs 6, Refs 10.